Following the loss of contact with the helicopter carrying the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Dorjee Khandu and five others (including two pilots) on Saturday, 30th April, 2011, a massive search operation was launched. The search operations are being carried out by teams from the Army, ITBP, SSB, Arunachal Pradesh Police, NDRF and grazers from Arunachal Pradesh. The Government of Bhutan has also deployed search teams on its side of the border.
Based on inputs received from the ISRO satellite and the Sukhoi-30 aircraft, as well as information provided by some local people, the search operations are now focussed on three areas:
(1) Nagar GG, District Tawang
(2) Area to the immediate south of Sela Pass known as Eagle's Nest Reserve Forest
(3) District Phangrong in Bhutan
Search teams on foot have reached the above areas. In addition, Air Force helicopters have been making regular sorties to find signs of any aircraft in the areas over which the Chief Minister's helicopter could have possibly flown. It may be appreciated that the search efforts have continued without any let up, subject only to interruptions due to bad weather.
At present, there are about 3,500 personnel deployed in the search operations. Government of India wishes to assure everyone, especially the people of Arunachal Pradesh, that all possible efforts are being made to locate the Chief Minister's helicopter. In this time of difficulty, we appeal to the people to remain patient and hopeful and pray for the welfare of the Chief Minister and the other five occupants of the helicopter.
(Shambhu Singh)
Joint Secretary (NE)
Ministry of Home Affairs
Dated : 4th May, 2011